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Lipoprotein lipase gene variants and the effect of environmental factors on cardiovascular disease risk
Author(s) -
Talmud Philippa J.,
Stephens Jeffrey W.
Publication year - 2004
Publication title -
diabetes, obesity and metabolism
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.445
H-Index - 128
eISSN - 1463-1326
pISSN - 1462-8902
DOI - 10.1111/j.1463-1326.2004.00304.x
Subject(s) - lipoprotein lipase , disease , gene–environment interaction , genotype , coronary heart disease , bioinformatics , risk factor , medicine , gene , biology , genetics , adipose tissue
Coronary heart disease (CHD) is a major cause of mortality in the Western world. CHD risk is known to be modified by both genetic and environmental factors. In this review, we look at the role of lipoprotein lipase (LPL) gene variants in predisposing to CHD risk and the important interaction between these genotypes and environmental factors (e.g. smoking). Gene–environmental interactions result in a greater than additive effect on risk and understanding these gene–environmental interactions has the potential not only for improving our understanding of the pathophysiology of the disease, but also in the development of new therapies and the targeting of specific therapies. For example, if a genotype increases risk in a particular environment, then those subjects would be encouraged to change their lifestyles more aggressively. Similarly at‐risk subjects could be targeted with available therapies more appropriately.